Nigeria Resists One-Party Rule, Says Rep. Osawaru

Legislative Impact and Policy Reforms

Hon. Billy Osawaru, Chairman of the House Committee on African Integration and Cooperation and member representing Orhionmwon/Uhunwonde Federal Constituency of Edo State, has made significant contributions to national policy reforms that have had measurable governance impact.

One of the key motions he sponsored was on the 35 per cent affirmative action for women in governance. This motion was introduced shortly after the House resumed its sessions. The President demonstrated a commitment to this policy by appointing more women to the cabinet and other strategic positions than previous administrations had. This move not only promotes gender equality but also ensures diverse representation in decision-making processes.

As the then Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Poverty Alleviation, Osawaru moved a motion urging the reopening of accounts belonging to the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. At the time, the accounts of the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) had been frozen following the minister’s suspension, which stalled several poverty alleviation programmes. After the motion was adopted, the accounts were reopened, and programmes such as N-Power resumed. This initiative helped restore vital support to communities affected by poverty.

In terms of legislation, Osawaru has sponsored bills, including one to establish a University of Agriculture in Uronigbe in his constituency. Being a largely rural area, the institution will not only provide agricultural education but also function as a research centre capable of attracting international collaboration and exchange programmes. He also sponsored a bill to establish the Chartered Institute of Business Management, aimed at regulating business professionals in Nigeria. That bill is currently at the public hearing stage.

Additionally, as a member of the House Committee on Sports, he chaired a subcommittee responsible for fundraising for Nigerian athletes ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games. Through that effort, they raised about N200 million to support our Olympians and ensure they receive better welfare beyond what is provided in the budget.

Addressing Poverty in the Constituency

As a former Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Poverty Alleviation, Osawaru has taken several steps to address poverty in his constituency. He has actively facilitated his constituents’ participation in programmes under the National Social Investment Programme. These include Conditional Cash Transfers, entrepreneurship initiatives, and Iyaloja support funds.

Through collaboration with relevant ministries and agencies, he has helped secure training opportunities and support programmes for people from his constituency. Even after leaving the committee, he continues to maintain strong working relationships with these agencies, making it easier to channel benefits and opportunities to his constituents.

However, he always emphasizes that such interventions should be implemented nationwide, as poverty is not confined to any specific region of Nigeria.

Political Outlook and Second Term Bid

Osawaru expresses confidence in securing his party’s ticket for a second term amid other aspirants. He believes that his delivery on the mandate given to him by the people of Orhionmwon/Uhunwonde Federal Constituency has earned him positive feedback from constituents.

The seat has an unwritten rotational arrangement between the two local governments, Orhionmwon and Uhunwonde, which has existed since 1999. Under that arrangement, one local government serves as the representative for two consecutive terms before rotating. Since this is his first term, the expectation is that he will complete a second term.

Leaders across the constituency have expressed support for this arrangement and are optimistic that he will perform even better with the experience gained during his first term.

Some opponents claim that key political leaders are not backing his second-term bid. However, Osawaru responds that opposition candidates will always provide reasons to justify their ambitions. He recently held meetings with several constituency leaders, and the feedback was very positive. While it is impossible to have 100 per cent support in politics, he remains confident that the majority of both leaders and grassroots supporters are behind him.

Party Loyalty and Primary Process

As a loyal party member, Osawaru would not challenge the process if his party’s primaries are disputed. His political history shows that he is not a desperate politician. He has always remained loyal to the party.

As long as the primary process is free, fair, and provides a level playing field, he will accept the outcome. That said, he remains confident that he will emerge victorious.

Federal Medical Centre in Ehor

Critics argue that establishing a new Federal Medical Centre in Ehor may not be necessary, given Nigeria’s limited budget and underfunded tertiary hospitals. Osawaru explains that Orhionmwon and Uhunwonde, two of Nigeria’s 774 local governments, currently lack a Federal Medical Centre.

Beyond providing healthcare, such institutions can generate revenue if properly managed. Establishing a medical centre in Ehor will also stimulate economic activity, attract businesses, and open rural areas to development. These local governments are predominantly rural, and the facility will help decentralise healthcare services, reduce pressure on urban medical institutions, and encourage development in rural communities.

Economic Reforms and APC Challenges

Osawaru believes that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms will secure him a second term, given the current economic challenges. The reforms began about two years ago, and Nigerians should start seeing tangible results in this period. During the recent budget presentation, the President expressed optimism that the outcomes of these reforms will become evident before the end of the year.

He shares that optimism. Once the benefits begin to materialise, Nigerians will appreciate the reforms. The fact that more governors are expressing interest in joining the ruling party also suggests growing political confidence in the administration.

Regarding the claim that the APC is turning Nigeria into a one-party state, Osawaru states that Nigeria cannot become a one-party state because the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) currently recognises over 18 registered political parties. These parties met the legal requirements for registration and are free to participate in elections. If other parties are experiencing internal challenges, it should not be blamed on the APC.

Priorities for a Second Term

If Osawaru secures a second term, his priority will be to consolidate the progress made in his first term. He intends to push his pending bills through the legislative process so they can receive presidential assent.

He will also sponsor additional legislation based on the pressing needs of his constituency and the country at large. With the experience gained in his first term, he expects to return as a ranking member of the House and, hopefully, take on a leadership role that will enable him to contribute even more to national development.